The fact that you haven’t read the book I suggested makes it quite clear that you are not as well-researched as you pretend. That is a primary source. I am a northeastern American - raised to visit every Revolutionary War battlefield in my state and others - and we all know who and what made up our fighting men at that time. Of course, they evolved into a good fighting force. But to deny the rebellious, amusing raggle-tag army that so plagued General Washington in the war’s early years, is to deny history. I don’t know who mentioned “pitchforks” to you, but most of us know they were supplied with gunpowder and arms.
Off the subject, I want to remind you that your remark about losing Viet Nam was uncalled for and shameful - not to mention, vulgar. There are hundreds of Viet Nam vets on this site, some of them grievously injured. While the wounds of the War of 1812 are well-healed (or should be), the wounds of Viet Nam are open and bleeding. And since there were plenty of allies involved in that action, I would think you’d show more respect.
Firstly, I am a MA in History, an occasional p/t lecturer here in Scotland, I know my history very well thanks. Esp British Imperial History.
Just because I haven’t read one particular book?. Really?. I am sure I can quote you academic articles and books on the subject you haven’t read. You also amazingly ignore that the obvious fact that you and I were educated under different systems, from early education to further education.
Secondly, by pitchforks I am clearly alluding to overly romantic myths about revolutionary forces, fuelled by bad movies and bad history. I know they were armed, you read my remarks too literally.
Thirdly, I have already stated that my Vietnam remark was in jest and was in jocular/sarcastic response to an earlier remark about the British losing the Revolutionary War.
DONT DARE to ever accuse me, Madam, of actually disrespecting ANY American serviceman or woman on this site. I have posted my thanks to many here in my 8 years here and asked others to thank their parents and family members who served in WW2 to today. DONT YOU EVER DARE ACCUSE ME OF THAT AGAIN. Kindly wind that offended neck in.
Lastly, and on that point, how do you think I feel when I read the comments here about Britain being saved by America, or posts which actually ridicule the British contribution and moreover sacrifice in two world wars?. Or are the Limeys supposed to take it in jest and not respond?. Are the Limeys here on FR not allowed to be offended, it is just for the Americans here?.